11/03/2024
Plan ahead to unearth Multi Axis Electric Motion benefits
Simon Gass from Norgren shares the critical considerations engineers should address when specifying multi axis electric motion control solutions*
When seeking to move, place, and position components as part of an automated response, linear and multi axis electric motion solutions sit alongside pneumatics as a proven solution.
As a result, multi axis electric motion systems are now being specified across many industrial sectors such as material handling, packaging, food production, chemical processing, and pharmaceuticals, and are seen as a highly configurable, cost effective and productive solution.
Multi axis electric motion has the flexibility to solve the needs of individual applications, and this can be as part of an OEM machine build project or driving operational efficiencies and output for a demanding production line. Identifying electric motion solutions aligned with objectives, choosing standard or custom responses based on application needs, and considering critical factors in planning aids specification teams in understanding and achieving optimal outcomes.
The factors include:
A challenging operating environment - Environmental conditions should determine the combination of drive and guide component specification for a multi axis electric motion system. Application machinery can often be subject to contamination and adverse environments and in such cases, linear axes with robust roller guides and toothed belt drives are particularly well suited for this purpose.
Component weight and loading parameters - The mass to be moved often determines the dimensioning of the axis system and has significant influences on the overall machine size. The handling of small and light components, for example, requires fast and reliable movement and products with toothed belt drives are efficient in such cases.
Short distance requirements - If short distance travel and highly precise adjustment of a workpiece are required, short spindle drives offer the best solution. Depending on the application, linear axis can be equipped with trapezoidal or ball screw spindles to provide the most accurate positioning over short distances.
Speed and repeatability - The type of application in question determines the speed and the required precision. For simple handling of components for transfer to the next production process, highly dynamic linear units can be used to ensure high output levels.
Precision and accuracy - The machining of sensitive electrical components or filling in pharmaceutical production may require high-precision applications. For this purpose, the systems used must operate with maximum accuracy. Here, many applications rely on very precise ball screws in combination with rail guides for low to medium loads.
Energy consumption concerns - A sustainable production process needs to address energy consumption and energy costs. Some manufacturers are replacing pneumatic components with electric linear units, including multi axis capability to support this objective. Due to the comparatively high efficiency and lower energy costs, electric linear units are subsequently generating interest.
Norgren’s recently expanded range of multi axis electric motion solutions can help meet automation application requirements. For more information, click here.
*Multi axis systems, alternatively referred to as cartesian robots or TTT Robots refer to mechanical movement systems normally operating across 2 (xy) or 3 (xyz) axis.